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What Do You Know About Taking Care of Your Back?

Oh, my aching back! Back pain is one of the most common complaints patients bring to the
doctor's office. But how serious is it? Take this quiz and see how much you know about back care.

1. How many vertebrae are in the spinal column?

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Thirty-three vertebrae make up the spinal column.

A. 53B. 43C. 33D. 23

2. How many Americans will experience back pain in their lifetime?

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Lower-back pain is the most common workplace injury.

A. 1 of 2B. 1 of 3C. 3 of 5D. 4 of 5

3. What's the most common cause of backaches?

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Correct posture is especially important when you sit. Sitting for hours stresses the back more than standing.

A. Poor postureB. Lifting a heavy objectC. Athletic strainD. Aging

4. Which article of women's clothing stresses the back the most?

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Low or flat heels are best.

A. Tight beltB. High heelsC. Too-tight braD. Shoulder bag

5. Which of these symptoms may indicate a serious back strain or injury?

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Numbness in the groin or rectal area and pain that doesn't go away also warrant a physician's attention.

A. Leg weakness or numbnessB. Pain and stiffnessC. Difficulty controlling bowel or bladderD. A and C

6. How long should you rest in bed if you experience back pain?

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Inactivity can worsen the condition.

A. No more than 2 daysB. 3 daysC. 5 daysD. No more than 7 days

7. Which of these is the proper way to avoid straining your back when you lift a heavy object?

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Pivot your feet if you must turn. Don't twist from the waist.

A. Squat, then lift with your kneesB. Squat, then lift with your backC. Bend over from the waist and flex your knees as you liftD. Bend over from the waist and keep your knees straight as you lift

8. An older woman who experiences localized back pain may be suffering from which of these?

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According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, these fractures affect about 25% of all postmenopausal women. Vertebral compression fractures are the most common fractures in people with osteoporosis. Researchers recommend an osteoporosis test for older women who experience frequent back pain and disability.

Sleep with your knees slightly bent and drawn up toward your chest. Place a pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back. When you sleep on your stomach, cushion your abdomen by putting a pillow under it.